1996 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 351 kg more than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. 2011 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Barchetta has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Barchetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Fiat Barchetta | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | Barchetta | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 212 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1411 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2703 mm |